My cat's mouth is dirty, painful, and she's not eating. Tooth issue?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 3 years and 10 months old | 8.5 lbs
I have noticed that after eating, my cat's mouth gets dirtier than usual. It looks like dark brown liquid on the side of her mouth and this morning it was on her chin. This happens with both wet and dry food. Yesterday, she left some dry food in her bowl which is not like her. When I try to clean her up with a wet paper towel she screams like I'm hurting her. Does she maybe have a tooth issue?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 12th, 2018
This sounds very much like she may have a tooth problem or a mouth ulcer or an injury. Since she apparently is in pain when you try to touch her around the mouth, I suggest you take her to your veterinarian for a dental exam. She may need a tooth removed or be treated for an ulcer or have tartar removed.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on July 25th, 2018
If your cat has bad breath she likely has a lot of tartar on her teeth and severe gingivitis which harbours a lot of bacteria and hurts. She will need to have her teeth checked and likely will need a dental cleaning removing all the tartar and bad teeth. There is also a possibility that she has an ulcer or an injury in her mouth or that she has ulcers due to kidney disease, which can be ruled out via a blood test. Since bad teeth are very painful, and infection in the mouth can cause heart and kidney disease you need to take your kitty for an exam by your vet tomorrow, if possible.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on September 14th, 2017
This may indicate a bad tooth or an infection in her mouth or gums. Since she is drooling and not grooming herself this can be a sign of pain. You vet can exam her gums and teeth and check from growths or ulcers and do blood work to make sure there is not a virus causing this.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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